America Leaves Iraq. Is the Empire Really Leaving?
After more than two decades, the last U.S. forces have left Iraq. But does the departure of American soldiers really mean the end of American power in the Middle East?
This analysis looks beyond the military withdrawal to examine a deeper transformation: from occupation and permanent ground presence toward sanctions, financial leverage, intelligence networks, naval power and strategic partnerships. Iraq may represent the end of one era of American power, while the confrontation with Iran reveals the emergence of another.
The soldiers have left. The architecture of influence may remain.
Follow…
The skinny
The skinny isn't ready yet — notes appear once the transcript is processed.